In August 2023, during World Youth Day (WYD) in Lisbon, Portugal, a young woman named Jimena experienced a miracle. After receiving Communion, she regained her sight. Jimena, who had lost 95% of her vision due to severe myopia, shared her story with ACI Prensa, CNA’s Spanish-language partner.
For two and a half years, Jimena could barely see. She travelled from Madrid to Lisbon with a group from Opus Dei. Before the event, her family and friends prayed a novena to Our Lady of the Snows, whose feast day is on August 5, the same day Jimena’s sight returned.
Jimena described her miraculous experience in detail. During Mass, after receiving Communion, she felt a deep peace and began to cry, not from sadness but from a profound sense of calm. When she opened her eyes, she could see clearly. She recognized her friends and saw the altar and tabernacle perfectly.
Jimena’s father recalled that she had been scheduled for emergency eye surgery, but her eye condition improved unexpectedly the night before, eliminating the need for surgery. This earlier healing strengthened their faith and belief in miracles.
Upon returning home, Jimena visited her doctor, who was astonished by her sudden recovery. The doctor noted that medically, such an instantaneous recovery was unprecedented.
Following her miracle, Jimena wrote to Pope Francis, who invited her and her family to Rome. They had a private meeting with the Pope and attended Mass at the Basilica of St. Mary Major. The Pope encouraged them to document Jimena’s testimony and share it with their bishop in Madrid.
Jimena’s experience has deepened her devotion to Our Lady of the Snows and the Virgin Mary. She believes her story is not about her but about the power of faith and God’s plans. Jimena and her family now participate in novenas for others in need of healing, keeping their involvement anonymous to avoid misconceptions about personal power.
Jimena plans to return to Rome soon with her friends from WYD, continuing her journey of faith and gratitude.
Source: CNA
